Designed explicitly for Startups with Dual-Use Potential
Dual-Use Growth is a unique program that helps startups identify their potential within the defense sector. Beyond the apparent benefits for startups of having their product or technology noticed by the military, the goal is also to be at the forefront of innovation within the defense industry.
There is a need for new technologies in the defense sector. At the same time, the defense industry can be a game changer for startups looking to scale quickly and get their technology validated. With FMI (Defense Ministry’s Procurement and Logistics Organization) as a partner, companies gain access to the military, valuable insights into global technological trends, and knowledge about what it takes to sell to this regulated international market. DTU Science Park has been creating and running acceleration programs for the past 10 years, and this program is built on our knowledge of what it takes to scale startups but is specifically designed for dual-use startups. We ensure that companies get the fundamentals right while creating the right connections for future sales by linking them with the right partners.
Signe Blad Johnsen
CCO and head of startup activities at DTU Science Park
The Defense Sector Wants Closer Ties to Innovation Environments
Technological innovation and scaling of new technologies are crucial for the defense sector, which is why the Dual-Use Growth program has formed an essential partnership with the Defense Ministry’s Procurement and Logistics Organization (FMI):
Innovation capability has become a crucial factor for the defense sector. We don’t know which technologies will be decisive in future conflicts. Still, we do know that the ability to develop them faster and better than potential adversaries is already a significant national security interest. Therefore, the defense sector’s participation in Dual-Use Growth is intended to bring us closer to innovation environments where this innovation capability can be cultivated. Participation is also a learning journey for us, and we are practicing ‘working with startups.’ At the same time, we look forward to following and supporting the selected companies with insights from an otherwise very closed world. We are Open for Business – even if your company registration number is brand new.
Aske Nerup
Major and Head of the Defense Industry Office at the Defense Ministry’s Procurement and Logistics Organization
Cross-Sector Partnership to Boost Investment Potential
The program, the first of its kind in Denmark, focuses on developing technological startups with market potential across defense and civilian markets. This is why the program was launched in partnership with NFC and the venture house PSV. PSV’s evergreen investment unit, PSV Foundry, is involved in the selection of startups and will, with their 20 years of investment experience, support participants with advice on their financing journey:
Investment and expertise in developing and maturing startups with innovative technology for both defense and civilian purposes are in high demand. The rapidly growing focus has highlighted the need to build an ecosystem that can nurture and support these startups in their journey and also serve the defense industry’s needs. PSV’s key mission is to fill gaps in overlooked and innovative technology markets, which is why, as an investor rooted at DTU, it makes perfect sense for us to participate in a partnership that bridges groundbreaking research, the financing journey, and society. We look forward to contributing what we have honed over two decades, namely helping and supporting founders in developing their companies to the next stage of their journey
Jesper Hart-Hansen
Investment Director at PSV
Seven Promising Startups Ready to Make a Difference
After a comprehensive selection process, seven promising startups have been chosen to participate in the program, which is initially being run as a pilot project. These companies represent a wide range of technologies, all with the potential to make a significant impact in both commercial and military applications:
1. Tordenskjold
The company specializes in advanced maritime surveillance using artificial intelligence, which analyzes data from multiple sources, including satellite images and fiber cable data, to make hidden ships visible
2. Lightnovo
Developed a miniaturized, handheld spectrometer.
3. Dropla Tech
Specializes in advanced remote sensing and sensor fusion, improving the detection and identification of landmines and unexploded ordnance.
4. Glysious
Develops an innovative foam bandage that seals wounds, prevents infection, and promotes healing – all with minimal disruption to the wound bed.
5. LIITA Care
Offers a medical device that improves respiratory health by delivering hyper-osmotic dry NaCl particles to both the upper and lower airways.
6. DanaDynamics
Works with advanced autonomous technologies for maritime applications.
7. Skypuzzler
Developed advanced Digital Air Traffic Control software, enabling drones to fly safely and autonomously using software-to-software communication.
The program runs from August to November, with the goal of offering participants an extended course in 2025.
